HARRISON, N.J. (1010 WINS) -- New York Red Bulls midfielder Daniel Edelman, 20, grew up watching the team at Red Bull Arena, a short drive from his native Warren, N.J.
And now, as soccer gains momentum in the U.S. -- particularly in the tri-state area -- he's found himself at an ideal time to be on a team representing the largest city in the U.S. (The team's regular season kicks off Sunday in Nashville; its first home game is March 9).
After all, Copa America heads to the U.S. in June, with games being played in 14 venues across the country, including MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford.
Then in 2026, the FIFA World Cup heads to North America, with MetLife Stadium being one of the venues.
So does Edelman, who signed in December a new four-year MLS contract through 2027 with an option for 2028, think this will boost the region's interest in soccer, which Americans have typically shied away from?
"Absolutely," he told 1010 WINS at Red Bull Arena this week. "It's going to definitely help the market of soccer being in New York, New Jersey, and really getting the exposure out there because soccer is not viewed as one of the main sports in this area."
Edelman, who has played for the team for the past two seasons, said the sport is already a hit with fans of foreign teams.
"And even you see games that are held at Red Bull Arena between Ecuador and Peru and Bolivia, all these teams, South American teams that play here and you see the arena filled out," he said. "So I think it'll be super special to have different opponents come and play, play in the New York area."
And what about playing against Inter Miami, but more specifically forward Lionel Messi?
"It's definitely helping grow the league, the MLS," he said. "Definitely all eyes will be on matches now even more so, so it's exciting to be going up against the GOAT."
The Red Bulls play Miami on March 24.